Uganda: Country Profile and Facts 2019

Uganda Fact File

Independence: 9 October, 1962

GDP: $26.35 billion

Population: 39,570,125 people



Uganda, officially the Republic of Uganda, is a country located in east Africa. Uganda is bordered by Kenya to its east, South Sudan to its north, DR Congo to its west, Rwanda to its south west and Tanzania to its south. Although the country is largely landlocked, the southern part of the country borders Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa and the source of the Nile River.

During colonial times, Uganda was a British territory. It attained independence on 9 October, 1962. Its capital and largest city is Kampala.

Demographically, Uganda has a population of 39,570,125 people. Ethnically, the country is highly diversified. Ethnic groups in the country include Baganda, Banyankole, Basoga, Bakiga, Iteso, Langi, Bagisu, Acholi, Lugbara, among many others.

The country has two official languages, these include English and Swahili. However, a host of other languages are also spoken in the country such as Luganda, and various Bantu and Nilotic languages.

Religiously, the country has a high number of Christians. Christian Protestants account for 45.1% of the population, while Roman Catholics account for 39.3%. Islam is practiced by 13.7% of the population. The remainder of the population practiced indigenous religion or had no religious affiliation officially.



Economically, Uganda is a developing economy. Its GDP stood at $26.35 billion in 2017, but its per capita income stood at a mere $700. Like many African countries, agriculture employs over 70% of its labour force. Agricultural exports such as coffee, fish, tobacco, tea, sugar, hides and skin, among others have been important GDP contributors for decades. However, the country also has other vast mineral resources such as oil, natural gas and mining resources.

Politically, Uganda practices the presidential system of government. The president is both the head of state and head of government. The current president is Yoweri Museveni.